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BOSCH E:38 / -25 / -26

Bosch Washing Machine Error E:38 / -25 / -26: Drain Pump Blocked — Clean Drum First

Clear meaning, realistic next steps, and safe guidance without turning the page into a long repair manual.

What it means

The drain pump is blocked. On this code variant, Bosch recommends cleaning the drum first, then cleaning the pump if the error persists.

Severity

Low - usually safe to check with basic user-accessible cleaning or inspection on the Bosch washing machine.

Can you fix it yourself?

Yes — DIY-safe

Most likely cause

Foreign object in pump impeller

Estimated time for safe first checks: 20–35 min.

Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide

  1. SAFETY: Switch off and unplug the machine.
  2. First, run a Drum Clean cycle on an empty drum — this can flush debris toward the filter.
  3. After the drum clean, open the pump filter access panel and drain residual water.
  4. Remove, clean, and inspect the pump filter.
  5. Remove any foreign objects from the pump cavity.
  6. Reinstall filter, restore power, and run a drain cycle to test.

If it's still not draining

  • If the drain path looks clear but the code returns, the issue is more likely in the pump path or another less accessible restriction.
  • If the door closes normally but the warning keeps returning, the latch or switch path becomes more likely than a simple alignment issue.
  • If airflow still seems weak after the basic checks, the fan path or a deeper obstruction becomes more likely.

What This Error Means

E:38 / -25 / -26 on your Bosch washing machine means: The drain pump is blocked. On this code variant, Bosch recommends cleaning the drum first, then cleaning the pump if the error persists. The machine detects this condition via its sensors and stops the current cycle to prevent further damage. The error will remain until the underlying cause is resolved.

The most frequent cause is foreign object in pump impeller. Work through the causes listed below in order — the first cause is the most likely and the most straightforward to check.

Error E:38 / -25 / -26 is DIY-safe for most homeowners. The fix typically takes under 30 minutes and requires no specialist tools. Follow the steps below exactly — skipping steps is the most common reason the error returns.

The most visible symptom is standing water in the drum at the end of a cycle. Do not run another cycle until the blockage is cleared — standing water stresses the door seal and pump motor.

Most Likely Cause by Symptom

The Bosch washing machine may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.

Likely cause: Foreign object in pump impeller

Check first: SAFETY: Switch off and unplug the machine.

Water may remain inside the drum at the end of the cycle.

Likely cause: Lint and debris from drum washing into pump

Check first: First, run a Drum Clean cycle on an empty drum — this can flush debris toward the filter.

The appliance may fail to start because the door or lock state cannot be confirmed.

Likely cause: Pump filter blocked

Check first: After the drum clean, open the pump filter access panel and drain residual water.

Common Causes

  • Foreign object in pump impeller
  • Lint and debris from drum washing into pump
  • Pump filter blocked

What Not to Do

  • Do not skip the drum clean step on E38 codes — it's specifically recommended by Bosch for this variant

Model and Display Variation Notes

Model-family notes

  • Bosch washing machine display wording and code formats can vary by series.
  • If your model behaves differently, check the owner manual before trying any deeper maintenance step.

Display and panel differences

  • Panel wording can vary by series, so confirm the exact code pattern before buying parts.

Parts, Tools and Service Options

Common parts

  • Drain pump motor ($35–$80)

Manual and model check

Check your exact model and manual before ordering any Bosch washing machine parts.

Suggestions in this section are organized to support the troubleshooting flow first. Any future affiliate relationships should be disclosed clearly.

When Not to Keep Troubleshooting

Pump cavity is clear after drum clean and filter clean — but drain fails

How to Prevent It Recurring

  • Run drum clean monthly
  • Check pockets before washing
  • Clean filter every 3 months

Related Error Codes

Extra notes

  • This page is based on Bosch support material and stays conservative where model-specific guidance may vary.
  • The goal is to help you identify safe first checks before you move into parts, service, or model-specific manual lookup.

Source and model notes

Last reviewed: 2026-04-07

Based on: Based on Bosch support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.

View Bosch US Official

Model coverage note: Bosch washing machine code meanings can vary by series, control panel, and model family, so use this page as a safe starting point rather than a replacement for the model-specific manual.

Important: FixThisError is an independent guide, not the manufacturer. Use your model-specific manual when the panel wording or behavior differs.

Always disconnect power before inspecting appliances. If unsure, contact a licensed appliance technician.